Look The Part
Dress for Success!
Outfitting Yourself for Life on the Road as a Truck Driver
There’s that old saying that “Clothes make the Trucker”, or something like that… there’s another stating “There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.”
The American trucking industry has the most minimal dress codes on the planet, making the fashion barrier to entry somewhere just below whale shit. That being said, I encourage you to respect yourself and stay practical. Jeans and a nice enough tshirt will do in most cases if you prefer to wear a safety vest and look normal most the time. A good flannel when it gets cooler out. You don’t need to wear a button up or polo, if you do you will stand out, but unless its after 8 pm I recommend still taking the time to at least throw on real pants. Even though we are truckers, gym shorts and sweatpants with Nike slides or crocs are a bad look no matter what your industry.
Especially when you start out, remember that you represent whatever company you work for, and if the company has a dress code, abide by it. Whatever you do, don’t get caught looking like trash for the first few months out. Some clothing can be a safety hazard, depending on the loading environment, other clothing can get you banned from job sites.
Because I no longer believe in common sense, I’ve got the following list for you as a rough guide to consider when hitting the open road and heading to your first orientation.
Generally speaking, life on the open road as a truck driver can be an adventure, but it also requires careful planning and preparation, especially when it comes to your wardrobe. Truckers often encounter a wide range of climates and weather situations. Therefore, having a versatile and well-thought-out collection of outfits is essential to ensure comfort and safety throughout your journeys. Here’s a guide to the various outfits a truck driver may want to have available:
1. All-Season Uniform:
Many trucking companies provide uniforms designed for all seasons. These typically include moisture-wicking, breathable shirts and pants suitable for various weather conditions.
Many companies will give you a few T-shirts, or an idea of what they want you to wear, but more often than not what you will run into is strict rules on having long sleeves, steel toed boots, safety vest, gloves, hardhat, safety, glasses, obviously, long pants, and some places earplugs. With flatbed usually this is a steel mill sort of list, but many places want to make sure that you either stay in the truck or are dressed appropriately.
2. Layered Clothing:
Layering is key to adapting to changing temperatures. Invest in moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers. This combination allows you to add or remove clothing as needed.
3. Cold Weather Gear:
For colder climates, pack items like thermal underwear, heavy-duty insulated gloves, a warm hat, and a high-quality winter coat. Don’t forget warm socks and waterproof boots to keep your feet warm and dry.
4. Rain Gear:
A good set of rain gear is essential for staying dry during wet weather. Consider a waterproof jacket, pants, and waterproof boots. Opt for breathable materials to prevent moisture buildup.
5. Hot Weather Essentials:
In hot weather, lightweight and breathable clothing are essential. Moisture-wicking shirts, shorts, and a wide-brimmed hat help keep you cool. Sunglasses and sunscreen provide protection from the sun’s rays.
6. Sun Protection:
Sun protection is crucial to prevent skin damage. Invest in a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating and UV-blocking sunglasses.
7. Windbreaker:
A windbreaker or lightweight jacket is handy for windy days or cooler evenings. It provides an extra layer of insulation without adding bulk.
8. Work Boots:
Comfortable, durable work boots are a must. Look for those with good arch support, slip-resistant soles, and insulation for cold weather.
9. Sleepwear and Loungewear:
Comfort during rest stops or in the sleeper cab is essential. Bring comfortable sleepwear and loungewear for relaxation and downtime.
10. Safety Gear:
Reflective vests and high-visibility clothing are crucial for safety during roadside inspections and low-light conditions. Ensure they meet safety standards and regulations. Again, some steel mills will even hold up a magnet to your boots to make sure that you have steel toes, this is rare, but make sure you have steel toed boots in the truck with you at all times just in case. You don’t want to get banned from any properties. Most truck companies won’t let you show up to orientation without steel toed boots.
11. Personal Hygiene Items:
Don’t forget personal hygiene items like shower sandals, towels, and a toiletry kit with soap, shampoo, and other essentials for staying fresh on the road.
There’s a good chance you will run into other drivers out there if you haven’t already who fail miserably in the personal hygiene department. Don’t be that guy and you will stay healthy and happier on the road.
12. Laundry Supplies:
Access to laundry facilities may be limited on the road. Bring a laundry bag and detergent for cleaning your clothing during extended trips. It may surprise you to know that most truckstops have laundry detergent and washing machines available for purchase, but do you really want to sit and watch your clothes dry for two hours in the truck stop? I tried to bring extra clothes, but in some cases, you may be out for three weeks at a time depending on the company… Just know what kind of trip you are getting into.
13. Extra Accessories:
Consider accessories like a comfortable belt, a durable wallet with essential identification and documents, and a trucker’s cap or hat for sun protection.
I highly recommend the outdoor research Astro man, sun hats and shirts- check it out here.
14. Seasonal Changes:
Regularly assess your wardrobe to adapt to seasonal changes. Swap out items as needed to ensure you’re prepared for upcoming weather shifts.
One really easy way to do. This is to buy five or six high visability sweat wicking T-shirts and just peel them off once a day after you get loaded or do the dirty work. I honestly prefer long sleeve high viz UV protection shirts that keep the dust and dirt off of me while I’m loading up. I just take it off once I’m loaded or sometimes I’ll stop and shower right after then put on the shirt I’ll sleep in.
15. Uniform Maintenance:
Keep your uniform clean and in good condition. Regularly inspect it for wear and tear, and replace any damaged or worn-out items promptly.
Once everything gets stained and beat up from crawling under the truck, or leaning against your fifth wheel by accident, don’t be afraid to throw out that seven dollar Walmart T-shirt and get a new one. Treat yourself. Besides that, if you look like a slob, you will get treated much worse out here, that’s just the way it goes unfortunately.
By having a well-rounded collection of outfits and gear, truck drivers can be better prepared to face various climates and weather situations on the road. Dressing appropriately not only ensures your comfort but also contributes to safety and overall well-being during your long-haul journeys.
Take care of your body and your clothing and your mind will stay a little sharper, people will be a little friendlier, and you will find that life in a truck is a lot more comfortable. Not only that, if you do decide to change companies, for whatever reason, you don’t want to drop off what you have been using as a rolling, hamster cage… You want to be able to show up at the terminal with a nice clean truck, throw all of your stuff in a few, will organize bags, and get into an Uber and onto the next company as quickly as possible. Being well dressed for the job will make your life much easier in all circumstances.